WEST HAM defender James Collins' return from injury could open the door for Anton Ferdinand to leave Upton Park.
Sunderland are known to be interested in Ferdinand and reports suggest Roy Keane has had an £8million bid accepted by the Irons.
The move could now gather pace as Collins is likely to make his long-awaited return to action after missing most of last season with groin and knee problems, culminating in surgery on cruciate ligament damage.
Boss Alan Curbishley now has plenty to choose from in the centre of defence, with Matthew Upson and Calum Davidson performing well together in the Hammers 2-1 opening day win over Wigan, while Danny Gabbidon is recovering from injury and youngster James Tomkins is also ready to step in.
Ferdinand's departure would also reduce the wage bill at Upton Park, which has already been cut following the release of Freddy Ljungberg earlier this month.
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